Revised Common Lectionary Links

Comment: In this text from Second Kings, Naaman seeks a cure for his leprosy. When he meets the prophet Elisha, he is given a cure that seems much too simple. Naaman expected the cure he sought to be more difficult. In this story children will hone in on the hopefulness of finding something. While Naaman was trying to find a cure, Sandall’s storybook presents a form of seeking and finding that is more familiar to most children. While Naaman expected his search to be difficult, Jake expects his will be easy. For the majority of the game Daisy proves hard to find but in the end makes it easy for Jake to see her. Wonder together with your congregation about the things they have sought and found.

Comment: “So let us not grow weary in doing what is right… whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all…” In his words to the Galatians, we recognize that what Paul is asking is difficult, yet with Christ, not impossible. In Ben Rides On, Ben has a experience of choosing to do what is right after his bicycle is stolen. Rather than letting the thief perish on the side of the cliff, he rescues him. In the end, Ben reaps what he sows when the bully returns his repaired and like-new bike. This text and story call us to do the right thing, even when it is hard. Invite the people in your community to reflect upon their own experiences of choosing to do what was right, or being the recipient of such behavior.

Comment: This text highlights a level of hospitality shared both by those who welcome travelers, as well as the travelers themselves. To the seventy he sends out, Jesus advises that their peace rests with anyone who shares peace with them. In being welcomed, they are given the message that this is a place that is receptive of the good news and work of the gospel. Always Room for One More is a story based on a Scottish folk song. In the story, the family always offers hospitality and room to travelers. When it seems the room has run out, the travelers work to expand the space of welcome. In this sharing of hospitality, we see a picture of the kingdom of God coming near. This text and story invite us to ponder a radical hospitality that doesn’t require wealth, but is rooted in love.

The Lectionary Links this week are written by regular contributor Noell Rathbun-Cook.